Irish sports clubs and community organisations preparing for the next round of capital funding should take note: the Community Sport Facilities Fund 2026 is moving to a new online grant management system. SPRAOI will go live on Monday, 28 September, giving eligible applicants a new way to register and manage their funding details.
The announcement was made by Patrick O’Donovan TD, Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, and Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister of State for Sport and Postal Policy. Further details of the 2026 scheme are expected to be announced next week.
Community Sport Facilities Fund 2026 moves to SPRAOI
The Community Sport Facilities Fund is the Government’s main programme for supporting the development of sports infrastructure across Ireland. It can also provide funding for the purchase of non-personal sports equipment, helping clubs and communities improve access to participation facilities.
From 28 September, clubs and organisations that have not previously registered with the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport can create an account on SPRAOI. Organisations previously registered through the OSCAR system have had their registrations transferred automatically to the new platform.
However, existing applicants are encouraged to log in and verify that their contact, organisation and registration information is accurate before applying for future funding.
Who can apply for sports capital funding?
Funding under the programme is available to a range of community and public-sector applicants, including:
- Voluntary, not-for-profit sports clubs
- Community groups
- National Governing Bodies of sport
- Local authorities
Third-level colleges, Education and Training Boards and schools can apply only when working jointly with an eligible sports club or organisation.
How clubs can prepare for registration
Clubs seeking support through the Community Sport Facilities Fund 2026 should review their records and gather key organisational information before registration. Early preparation may help applicants respond more efficiently when the new scheme opens.
- Visit gov.ie/sportscapital from 28 September.
- Register on SPRAOI if the organisation is new to the Department’s system.
- Check transferred OSCAR details for accuracy.
- Review the organisation’s proposed infrastructure or equipment needs.
- Seek clarification by emailing sportscapitalprogrammes@ccs.gov.ie.
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What happens next?
The two Ministers are expected to publish further information about the 2026 funding scheme next week. That announcement should clarify the new application arrangements and provide more detail for clubs planning sports facility improvements.
The Department has also confirmed that information about the programme, including previous funding allocations, is available online. Applicants should rely on official guidance from the Department and monitor gov.ie for updates rather than submitting incomplete or outdated information.
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Key takeaway for Irish sports organisations
The Community Sport Facilities Fund 2026 is entering a new phase with SPRAOI replacing the previous registration process. Eligible clubs, community groups, National Governing Bodies and local authorities should register or check their transferred details from 28 September and watch for the scheme’s full guidance next week.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie
